Teenage full-back Freddie Steward says it was ‘unbelievable’ to make a first appearance at Welford Road in senior rugby.

The 18-year-old Steward replaced fellow Tigers academy graduate Jordan Olowofela in the second half of Tigers’ bonus-point win over Exeter Chiefs on Friday evening.

“Running out at Welford Road was awesome,” he said. “It’s something I have been thinking about for a while now, and something I’ve always wanted to do.

“At the start, when we were in the tunnel and the fans in the Crumbie were stomping … it was an unbelievable feeling. Walking out [onto the pitch] I got goosebumps. It was incredible.”

For Norwich-born Steward, coming out on top against a young Chiefs side was the cherry on top of his green, white and red cake. But he also knows it’s just one milestone in a tough first year of senior rugby.

“To get the win as well is really nice, so I am really pleased,” he continued. “The first few weeks of pre-season were really tough, and it was a big step up to make – but I knew that.

“Now we are into week 14 and I am getting some game time, I’m really enjoying it. I’m really enjoying the intensity, and I will keep working hard on the training field and see what happens.”

This story first appeared as an exclusive in The ROAR. Sign-up to receive the official club newsletter, twice a week during the season, online now at LeicesterTigers.com